Q2 Billings Area Weather Update: Rain, Snow, Wind, and Cooler Temperatures Arrive

An unsettled weather system has moved into the Billings area, bringing multiple rounds of precipitation through Friday, with the most significant impacts expected Thursday morning and again Friday afternoon.

According to the National Weather Service and local forecasts, the system will produce rain at lower elevations while snow accumulates in the mountains and foothills. Snow levels are expected to drop to around 2,000 feet by Friday, increasing the likelihood of snow in higher terrain.

The Absaroka, Beartooth and Crazy Mountains have a good chance of receiving over a foot of snow, prompting a Winter Storm Warning in effect through Friday morning. In the Bighorns, a Winter Weather Advisory is active through Thursday evening, where up to a foot of snow could accumulate. Foothill areas may see 4 inches or more of snow.

Lower elevation areas, including the Billings valley, will experience widespread rain before transitioning to a rain/snow mix Thursday night into Friday morning. However, temperatures are expected to remain warm enough to limit snow accumulation, with grassy surfaces likely seeing little to no buildup—mainly under an inch where snow does occur.